Mawlai MLA expresses concern over unhygienic conditions; calls for alternate dumping ground
SHILLONG: With tonnes of garbage generated daily from households and commercial establishments overflowing at the dumping ground at Marten, the only dump yard in the city, the decomposed garbage emitting methane gas and other toxins fills the air around the area.
That this is the gateway to Shillong is a grim reminder about the cumulative effect of years of neglect as far as managing garbage scientifically is concerned.
Observing this, UDP member and Mawlai MLA Embhahlang Syiemlieh, who inspected the Marten dumping ground on Thursday, expressed concern over the unhygienic conditions prevailing there.
Speaking to reporters after inspecting Marten along with FKJGP Mawlai circle, he said, “Along the stretch of the National Highway till Marten, the road is littered with garbage spilling over from the vehicles that enter and exit the dumping ground. The road leading to and out of Marten is slushy and dangerous as it could lead to accidents.”
Syiemlieh also stated that there were several complaints from the public over the profusion of wastes that spills on to the road at Lynti Rim, Mawiong, which is an eyesore. It gets worse during monsoon as the rainwater mixes with the waste to form slush.
The MLA has suggested that the vehicles can take the Wahjri route and avoid the National Highway to prevent littering on the roads. He added that though there was an assurance to erect a retaining wall along the parameters of Marten but till date it has not seen the light of day.
Commenting on the larger issue of a new garbage dump, he said, “The dumping ground is overflowing and filled beyond capacity, so we urge the State government to explore ways and means to find a new dumping ground.”
The MLA warned that Marten may not be able to take the heavy load of garbage in the near future.
When asked about the public opposition faced by the State Government to establish a dumping ground, he said, “The government should take the initiative to sensitise the people about the need for a new dumping ground.”
A visit to the Lynti Rim at Mawiong revealed the repulsive sight of mounds of garbage on both sides of the road. Both sides of the road are littered with garbage with people and vehicles having to traverse through the path.
Piles of wastes are left to rot and pollute groundwater. There is a public grievance that Marten has contributed to air, water and soil pollution.
FKJGP president of Mawlai circle, who accompanied the MLA during the inspection, questioned the role of the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board as he alleged that none of the officials have inspected the place so far.
